Last week, Newry and Armagh Assembly member Davy Hyland resigned from
Sinn Féin.

Speaking after his resignation after 25 years service, Mr Hyland said
he was “shocked and saddened” that he received notice that his name had
been removed from the party’s election slate through an anonymous text.

“Having given a lifetime of service to the Republican movement, I was
shocked and saddened when advised of my deselection by an anonymous
text message,” he said.

“I was particularly taken aback when the convention was fixed for a
date when I couldn’t attend, despite the organisers being aware of this
fact several weeks in advance.

“I believe the project to deselect me actually began some time ago
when, against my will and uniquely within the party, I was forced to
resign my seat on Newry and Mourne District Council.

“Following consultation with my family and friends and the people that
I represent, I have given the matter serious consideration and I
reluctantly conclude that there is no longer a place for me as a Sinn
Féin representative in this area. I leave Sinn Féin secure in the
knowledge that I have remained true to my Republican principles.”

Opposition among rival republicans is also growing, with the 32 County
Sovereignty Movement -- which broke away from Sinn Féin in 1998 --
releasing a statement of opposition.

“Recognition of the PSNI in any of its reformed status is recognising
the convictions of republicans before British Courts, dishonouring and
criminalising republican dead,” said Francis Mackey, National Chairman
32 County Sovereignty Movement.

“By recognising the PSNI, Gerry Adams effectively is giving a
commitment to assist in the ongoing hunt for republicans who are wanted
in ongoing cases.

“The 32 County Sovereignty Movement calls on the rank and file members
of Sinn Féin to reject this silly notion that the PSNI would be a civic
police force absolved of any political role.

“It is not possible, and recent statements show that the liaison
between MI5 and the PSNI ties them totally into policing Britain’s
illegal claim to sovereignty over part of our nation.